33 Comments

Black Labs Matter! As do Chocolate and Yellow. I feel your pain, yet hope someday when I cross over the rainbow bridge I will be met by all my buddies that crossed earlier.

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I'm so sorry, Bryan. You wrote this so beautifully and clear. My heart broke alongside yours as I read. Your love for Baloo was, is, so obvious. I think I remember sending Baloo some kind of UVA swag thing. Didn't I? He is a Hoo ensconced in history for evermore. Both you and he were so fortunate to have each other. Zuzu needs you extra now. Sending you love.

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Bryan, my heart is broken for you, Catherine, the girls, and Zuzu. I am so profoundly sorry that your beautiful Baloo has moved on. Navigating the loss of beloved pet family members is one of the hardest things we big-hearted people suffer through. I hope that family, friends--including Zuzu--signs of spring, and writing your heart out as you have done so beautifully help ease you through the coming days. With love.

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I'm so sorry.

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Dogs get perfect before we do…

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I'm so sorry for your loss. That's so hard.

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Heartbreaking and well-written. Thank you.

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Thank you for your openness on this family topic. My God, snot, tears and history of a friend all in one post. Your humanity, in the moment, is simply something we all need these days. Something you get after reflecting, and sitting in that Bridge chair where's it's all on you. Baloo, rest your oar......

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Anything I would write feels inadequate. I understand your sorrow. Herbie made his last trip to the vet January of 2023. ❤️❤️

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Heartfelt condolences on the passing of your friend & companion. I understand. ❤

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Baloo knew he was loved and had a good life with the McGrath family. That gave him a peaceful end. My deepest condolences, Sir.

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Beautiful. Baloo Murphy, better lo'ed ye ca-na be.

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My eyes are sweating a lot right now. Our daughter went thru the same thing last summer. Her dog Olive was our first "grandchild", and after 14 good years, health issues made it difficult for the her to have a quality of life. She had the best last day ever with a boat ride, bison & mashed potatoes. Olive was surrounded by her mom, dad, three (human) siblings, and a little dog brother at the end, and also got to enjoy goodbye kisses. The hub and I were out of state when this all happened, and it took us quite a while to reminisce about that wonderful dog without us blubbering. Good dogs help us try to be good humans. thanks for sharing.

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I am sorry for your loss. I have nothing else to say.

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Your economy and potency with abyssal emotional depth is touching and inspiring. Enjoy the endless mastodon steaks across the bridge, Baloo.

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Beautiful tribute for your dearest Baloo. I've been through the same thing and felt the same. It is a special pain when we lose our beloved dog. I do believe that there are dogs in heaven and there Baloo will be well accompanied by Sam, a good-natured British Bulldog, who also caused me many tears and sadness upon leaving, and many other beloved four-legged friends. I have to admit that, reading your writing, the tears have returned to my eyes. How sad that such magnificent companions last so little by our side!

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